FORT PORTAL CITY — A torch-lit procession, traditional chants and a symbolic mock battle have marked the dramatic entry of Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I into Karuziika Palace as the new Omukama of Tooro.
The traditional ceremonies began on Monday night, September 28, as Nyabongo I travelled from Rwengoma Palace towards Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal City.
Thousands of Batooro gathered along the route, carrying traditional lamps made from dried reeds as they danced, sang and chanted in celebration.
The journey from Rwengoma to Karuziika formed part of the traditional rites marking the arrival of an incoming Tooro king at the royal palace.
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The battle at the palace gate
The battle at the palace gate
At Mugabante, the main entrance to Karuziika Palace, Nyabongo I and his group faced palace defenders in a symbolic mock battle.
The defenders represented Omusuuga Charles Kayondo Kamurasi Akiiki, the head of the Babiito royal clan.
The ritual symbolised the struggle associated with claiming kingship and the transfer of royal authority to the new monarch.
Nyabongo I emerged victorious and entered the palace accompanied by members of the royal family, while members of the public remained outside as private rituals continued inside.
Royal symbols restored
Inside Karuziika Palace, Nyabongo I took his place on the restored royal throne.
Royal drums, spears and other regalia that had been turned upside down following the death of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV were returned to their proper positions.
The sculptures of lions at the palace and other locations were also uncovered after remaining covered during the mourning period.
These rituals marked the end of the kingdom’s mourning period and symbolically opened a new chapter under Nyabongo I.
Nyabongo I had earlier undergone okweeza, a traditional cleansing ritual involving milk and coffee beans, before beginning his journey to the royal palace.
Who is the new Omukama?
Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, formerly known as Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma, is a longtime journalist and news anchor at Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC).
He is the son of the late Prince Christopher Paul Kijanangoma and grandson of King Sir George David Rukidi III.
A Babiito succession committee selected him on September 9, 2026, before the Tooro Supreme Council endorsed the decision.
He succeeds his cousin, King Oyo, who died in the United States on August 27, 2026, aged 34, after more than three decades on the Tooro throne.
The succession process faced opposition from King Oyo’s immediate family, which cited a will naming his previously undisclosed son as heir. However, the Babiito clan and kingdom institutions proceeded with Nyabongo I’s installation.
Coronation set for Tuesday
The public coronation of Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I is scheduled for Tuesday, September 29, at Karuziika Palace.
The programme includes a church service and blessing at St John’s Cathedral, the raising of the Tooro flag to full mast and the return of the kingdom anthem.
The Omusuuga is also expected to formally hand over authority before Nyabongo I is crowned.
President Yoweri Museveni is expected to attend as chief guest.
The coronation will mark the beginning of a new reign for Tooro following more than three decades under King Oyo and place a former journalist at the head of one of Uganda’s recognised cultural institutions.
written by @enock katamba
- Enock Katamba is a Ugandan Journalist and Founder of Uncovered UG, an independent digital news platform covering Uganda and international developments. He reports on politics, national affairs, entertainment, sports, business, education and other stories of public interest.
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